Media Release

UNSW partnership heralds new era for Chinese Garden

The NSW Government and UNSW Sydney have today signed a sponsorship deal aimed at attracting more visitors and cultural events to Darling Harbour’s iconic Chinese Garden of Friendship.

Under the agreement, the Garden will become an epicentre of Australian-Chinese cultural exchange, playing host to a series of university-led seminars, guest lectures and networking opportunities.

Minister for Finance, Services and Property Victor Dominello said the agreement would see UNSW become the Garden’s inaugural key sponsor.

“This partnership will enhance the Garden’s role as an important cultural and leisure destination for both international and domestic visitors, and Sydneysiders,” Mr Dominello said.

“The Garden was built for Australia’s bicentenary in 1988 and is a symbol of enduring friendship between Sydney and the city of Guangzhou in Guangdong Province.”

UNSW Sydney Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International), Laurie Pearcey said: “UNSW Sydney’s ties with China and the Chinese community in Australia are strong and are set to become even stronger with this new partnership.”

“China is a vitally important partner for UNSW and we welcome the opportunity to further engage with the community and culture that links Australia and China.”

Chinese Garden of Friendship Advisory Committee member, Karen Soo, said the new partnership would help to further promote the Garden as a place of cultural and community significance.

“The Chinese Garden of Friendship attracted a record 230,000 visitors last year, and this agreement will open up the Garden to an even wider audience,” Ms Soo said.

The agreement marks another milestone in the Garden’s 30th anniversary celebrations. In October, the Garden was listed on the State Heritage Register, ensuring its history and cultural importance will be preserved for future generations. The Government also announced high-profile Lotus Dining Group will take over management of the popular Chinese Garden Teahouse.